If you suffer from a temporomandibular joint disorder, also known as TMD, you may be dealing with some uncomfortable systems. Good news—there are things you can do to cope. Don’t suffer in silence! Make sure you are working with your doctor, dentist, and local physical therapist in Cheyenne, WY to create solutions. In addition, here are some top tips that help others coping with this disorder that you can take advantage of to enhance your quality of life.

Mouth Guards

Many people that suffer from TMD also have bruxism. This is when a person grinds their teeth or clenches their jaw while sleeping. Since you don’t have control over this when you sleep, this is where a mouth guard comes into play. While you can buy some at the store, it is best to work with your dentist on getting a fitted mouth guard that is specifically made for your mouth. 

Acupuncture

TMD causes headaches and other facial pain, which is unpleasant. Studies have shown that some Americans benefit from acupuncture to treat this pain. This is done through needles strategically placed in areas such as the jaw or around the ear. It is said that it will correct the flow of energy. Wondering if this might be helpful for you? Understanding acupuncture is your first step of making a decision.

Heat or Cold Therapy

Depending on the type of pain you have with your TMD, you can treat symptoms with heat or cold. Which is best? If you feel sore, but are not in severe pain or experience inflammation, opt for heat therapy. You can use a hot towel, hot pack that you purchase from the store, or another form of heat that you can rest on the area. For more intense pain, cold therapy may be your go-to. It can reduce inflammation.

Physical Therapy and Exercises

Seeing a premier physical therapist is also a key treatment to treating your TMD symptoms. They will work with you to create a customized plan on various exercises that will help you learn to relax muscles, especially any tight muscles causing pain or headaches.

Massage Therapy

Another way your local physical therapist can help you with your TMD is through massage therapy. Physical therapists use a variety of massage techniques to release tension in the area. It can reduce or alleviate any friction, tightness, and soreness you are experiencing.

Medications and Oils

When discussing your TMD with your doctor, they may recommend putting you on medication to treat your symptoms. Some of these medicines include anti-inflammatories or pain relievers such as ibuprofen. Your doctor may also prescribe you a muscle relaxer to help ease the muscles in your area. If you have never taken a muscle relaxer before, they cause drowsiness for some, so be sure to take them when you do not have anything going on in case you become sleepy! Another option in addition to medication that can use to treat pain are oils. You can find headache oils at your local drug store that you can dab around your temples to help reduce tension.
To help you treat your TMD pain, North Platte Physical Therapy is here to help. We have several locations to accommodate you wherever is convenient to you! Contact us today to set up your appointment.